Bolivia at a Glance

From its icy Andean mountaintops down to its densely rain forested interior Boliva offers adventures for trekkers, eco-tourists and other hearty explorers.

Bolivia's combination of equatorial tropics and high altitude make weather and temperature changeable. Rainforests and low-lying areas can be hot, muggy and very rainy during the summer. If overland transportation gets too difficult, join locals and travel by boat. High above you, rain forest animals chatter and flit through the tree tops and around you people work, play and gossip.

In the Andes, follow ancient Incan stone paths up steep mountainsides. Breath the high altitude air deeply and get used to a lifestyle of high-altitude living that is commonplace in Bolivia. Mountainsides are verdant green at lower altitudes before switching to icy sheets and cool, impenetrable glaciers.

Get to know Bolivia's diverse officially pluri-national society as you travel through the country. People of many native heritages maintain their traditions while living modern lives. Art, handicrafts, music festivals and dress are all ways Bolivia's people demonstrate their proud heritage and help make any trip a fascinating exploration.

American tourists must apply for a tourist visa in order to visit Bolivia. They must also have a valid passport and an international certificate of vaccination. For more information, travelers of all nationalities should contact the Bolivian Consulate. American citizens can learn more about requirements by visiting the U.S State Department's website.

Need to Know

Severe Weather: Summer in Bolivia runs from January to May and can be miserably wet, muddy and mosquito filled. Higher elevations can have extreme heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night. It is important to bring the proper clothes for your trip.

Safety Concerns Scammers are on the lookout for tourists in La Paz. Fake police, fake tourist police and fake helpful locals are some angles people use to scam tourists. Elsewhere, scams still occur, especially during the August festival season.

Health Concerns Tourists are required to carry an international certificate of vaccination, so it is wise to contact your doctor about vaccines and the certificate at least two months before your trip.You will need a Yellow Fever vaccine and malaria pills. Boil or otherwise purify your water before drinking it.